Overview & Reviews

Debuting a few years after the start of the new millennium, the first-generation Mitsubishi Outlander was a late arrival to the small-SUV segment. Like many of its peers, it had a car-based design that translated into good handling and a comfortable ride on paved roads, but limited off-road capability. With so many competitors, Mitsubishi tried to set the Outlander apart with distinctive styling and a sporty demeanor. Compared to popular models from Honda and Toyota, however, the older Outlander models offered less interior space, and their breathless four-cylinder engines failed to live up to Mitsubishi's sporting image.

These problems were addressed in the larger second-generation Mitsubishi Outlander, which gained more interior space and an available V6 engine. Even so, the Outlander still lives in the shadows of its more successful contemporaries, whose reputations for overall quality and reliability are well-known to consumers. In spite of its lower profile, the second-generation Outlander is a competitive small SUV. It has the available all-wheel-drive system, high driving position and versatile cargo space consumers have come to expect in this segment, and sets itself apart with distinctive styling, advanced technology and a lively personality.

Current Mitsubishi Outlander
The Outlander is available in three trim levels: ES, SE and GT. Outlander ES and SE models are powered by a 168-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder, while the GT receives a 230-hp 3.0-liter V6. Four-cylinder Outlanders come standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the V6-powered GT uses a traditional six-speed automatic. Both have manual-shift capability. All Outlander trims are available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The AWD system is notable for its various configurations that allow drivers to select 2WD for maximum fuel economy or 4WD Lock for maximum traction in slippery conditions.

The base ES is equipped with air-conditioning, CD player, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a full array of safety features and an auxiliary audio jack. The SE adds alloy wheels, keyless ignition/entry, a sliding second-row seat, a third-row seat and upgraded upholstery. The GT gets automatic xenon headlights, automatic wipers, automatic climate control and upgraded interior materials.

Many options are grouped into packages and include a sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power driver seat, Rockford Fosgate audio system, the Fuse hands-free electronics interface, a rearview camera, a rear-seat entertainment system and a hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic updates.

In our reviews, we've praised the Mitsubishi Outlander for its energetic V6 engine as well as its family-friendly design and moderately sporty handling. Negatives include a ride quality that may be too stiff for some and second-row seating space that is merely adequate. Passengers in the third-row fare even worse, as that seat is frighteningly flimsy, very thinly padded and cramped even for small children. We wouldn't recommend using it. Overall, buyers seeking value, style and fun-to-drive characteristics in a package that doesn't sacrifice daily usability will find the Mitsubishi Outlander to be a decent choice, but we'd recommend that you consider its competitors.

Used Mitsubishi Outlander Models
Debuting for 2007, the latest (second-generation) Mitsubishi Outlander introduced a few key attributes that the original lacked, namely V6 power, a third-row seat and additional cargo room. Three trims were offered initially -- ES, LS and XLS -- and all were equipped with a 220-hp V6 engine. A unique option was the navigation system whose hard drive provided 30GB for music storage.

For 2008 Mitsubishi added the SE trim and the current car's four-cylinder engine. The LS trim was deleted the following year, while a back-up camera and a larger hard drive for the navigation system debuted. Besides the 2010 styling revamp, the V6 received a slight increase in power along with an update to the AWD system.

For 2010, the Mitsubishi Outlander received a major refresh that included new aggressive styling inspired by the Lancer Evolution X. Other changes included a new LCD gauge display, real-time traffic for the navigation system and an available "Fuse" hands-free link system with audio streaming and voice commands for MP3 players and cell phones. Mechanical changes included a slight power bump for the V6 engine (to 230 hp) and an upgraded version of the all-wheel-drive system. The XLS trim was dropped for 2012.

The first-generation Outlander was sold from 2003-'06. Dropped into the highly competitive small-SUV category, the Outlander had unique styling, a carlike ride and comfortable seating for four, but offered few advantages over the more established competition.

In its first year of production, the Mitsubishi Outlander was powered by a 140-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission. Around-town power was adequate with this setup, but Mitsubishi's compact sport-utility proved quite sluggish in passing and high-speed merging situations. A jump in hp to 160 for the 2004 model year helped somewhat, but the Outlander's engine still wasn't a match for the smooth and potent four-cylinders in small SUVs from Honda and Toyota, much less V6-powered Ford and GM models. Throughout the first-generation Outlander's run, both front-wheel-drive and AWD versions were offered.

In addition to the LS and the XLS trims, Mitsubishi added a high-line Outlander Limited trim in 2005, with unique interior and exterior trim enhancements as well as leather seating. Also significant for '05 was the addition of a five-speed manual as the standard transmission on the LS. Highly observant customers may also notice the slightly revised rear styling introduced during this model year.

In 2006, the midlevel XLS was replaced by the SE trim level, while base LS and high-end Limited trims remained. That model year also saw antilock brakes and side airbags find their way to the list of standard equipment for all trims. Models prior to 2006 reserved those safety features for premium models, making older LS-trim Outlanders less desirable for used car buyers. In general, we would advise used-car shoppers to look at '04 and newer Outlanders -- unless, that is, you find that you like the less powerful original engine more than we did.

User Reviews:

• 

  BUY THIS CAR - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By The Docnzok - March 18 - 10:00 am

  If you have not looked into this vehicle, you are missing something BIG. I was in the market for a new vehicle and was there the day these were put on the lot, my wife and I looked all over for a used car with low mileage for under 25,000. We saw the sticker on the outlanders and were absolutley amazed at the 16000 price tag.

• 

  Pleasantly Surprised! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By jnwafor - March 12 - 6:43 am

  Originally I was looking to purchase a Mazda CX-7; however, after doing a test drive and seeing its low fuel economy I was not impressed. Then I set my eyes on the Outlander. This car is dependable, GREAT fuel economy, I can get up to 30 mpg highway when traveling to work. (Cant get anywhere close to that with a Mazda). It has decent pick up with its standard V6 220 horsepower engine, I can definitely pass with no problem and keep up with fast lane traffic.

• 

  I am a noob MItsubishi owner. - 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Rusty Shackleford - February 18 - 2:48 pm

  So I just bought the 2016 Outlander ES 4WD, a few days ago. At the dealership, I test drove many vehicles including; the Jeep Compass, & the Hyundai Santa Fe. Both Vehicles had more features than my Outlander but once I drove that thing, I loved it. To me, it had the best ride feel, great price, and it feels like a larger SUV than what it really is. Mine is all black with black accented rims, so it looks sharp. Im disappointed in all the expert reviews saying this car is average because it does not come with all the latest in cabin features, but I dont need lane assistance, parking assistance, or even the heated seats. This is a fantastic SUV, extremely underrated, and great price. The one thing I do agree on with the expert reviews is the third row seating. That thing might as well not exist, because only my 4 year old can fit back there.

• 

  Mitsubishi Outlander 2015 - 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By easternwis - December 14 - 9:00 am

  Given some circumstances unique to my situation, I ended up having to purchase a 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander in November. I did not set out to buy this kind of vehicle, and I did not know what I was going to be getting, but I have been very pleased with it after three months and several thousand miles. Based on my experience I would recommend this SUV to others in the market.

• 

  Awesome machine - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By CBJ - December 6 - 10:00 am

  Im coming off owning two 4x4 trucks which were both underpowered, and needed an AWD vehicle that could haul a some equipment on the inside. I took a chance on the Outlander because it seemed like it had a lot of value. Its been 3 months now and this car is more than I ever thought it would be. Incredible power, awesome auto/stick, very quiet ride, no flaws that I can find.

• 

  2008 SE new car comments - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Darrell - November 10 - 12:50 pm

  As for the new 2008 SE Outlander this one is a disappointment. Sluggish off the line. Yes it is a 4 cyl. But no low end torque to speak of. The CVT is my first and am not impressed in one area. Slowing down it feels like the brakes are being applied. My first Mitsubishi with mechanical problems from day one. Turning left a clank. Same for turning right. Rear end screech when backing. Knocking noise mid vehicle. The dealer said they could not hear the clanking so did nothing. How about putting it up on a rack and turning the wheels? Said the screeching was the brake rotors. Normal. A first for me on any Mitsubishi. Average fuel consumption is not what we want. We want exact MPG.

• 

  Pretty solid - 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By ohiodoug - November 1 - 1:35 pm

  I bought this car at the very end of 2012 after my previous car was totaled and I had to make a decision pretty quick. I really hadnt thought of a CUV, but this was advertised right at 19K as a leftover 2012. I really liked to storage and room in the front and rear, and the ride seemed comfortable. Overall a much better value than just a sedan for someone who needs to haul stuff from time to time. So far (19 months in) the reliability has been excellent. No problems at all! Fuel economy is about as advertised 23/28, with better city mileage than that under some circumstances. However, if your highway speeds get up much above 70mph, the economy seems to drop off sharply.

• 

  You better watch out! - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Mario - October 30 - 6:46 am

  This Outlander is exactly what you paid for, you saved a couple of grand over Honda and Toyota and you get cheap plastic all over, cheap tires and a wind noise inside once you hit 65. Over all solid, powerful and predictable vehicle. Almost forgot the carpet is the worst I have seen in a while. I own a 2003 CRV and let me tell you this one is a keeper, as soon as we are done paying for the outlander its out of here. Back to Honda it is not worth saving a couple of grand if you plan to keep your car for more than 10 years.

• 

  great - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Herve - September 22 - 2:00 am

  Great car, but very easy to scratch it

• 

  OK Overall, But 3 Warranty Visits in 1yr - 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Tanya1921 - September 19 - 2:00 am

  Overall, the Outlander is great. Awesome sound system (stock), but the doors dont automatically lock, and I have taken it in 3x in a year for warranty repairs: molding on kick plate came off, A/C adapter stopped working, and excess glue on the windshield which was causing all the wiring to be exposed. My Hondas never had problems like this. It gets time consuming and my time is worth something. Paddle shifters are useless- no one really uses them in a 4 cylinder SUV. I have to yell at the bluetooth speaker to be heard.